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My dog limps briefly after waking. Is it joint pain or weather?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 5 years and 8 months old | 30 lbs

My dog keeps limping on his front leg after he wakes up from sleeping. During the day, he walks, runs, chases squirrels for hours with no problems. He is not licking it or whimpering at all but it's always the same leg that he favors. He wakes, limps for a minute or two and then he's fine. Could it be joint inflammation or changes in the weather?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 8th, 2018

Hello, sorry to hear about bandit. It could be changes associated with his leg that are worsened by cold weather. Things to consider include arthritis, and other joint diseases (hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, cranial cruciate ligament tear) depending on which leg he is limping on. Bandit could benefit from an orthopedic exam and imaging such as x-rays of his limping leg to further assess the cause of his lameness. In the interim, you could promote a lean body weight for bandit to decrease the stress on his joints and limit any hard impact activity such as running, rough playing, or jumping. Hope this helps and best of luck.

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    Answered By Emily, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 17th, 2017

    What you're describing could be arthritis of his elbow or shoulder. Sometimes a joint supplement or omega-3 fatty acid supplements help. Other times they need prescription strength medication from your veterinarian. If his limping gets worse or those home remedies do not help I recommend Jax be examined by a veterinarian.

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